Biofilms are present in most chronic wounds and are likely to be present on both the surface and deeper wound layers but may not be uniform across or within the wound.
Biofilms are difficult to visualize macroscopically, and exudate, slough or debris may be mistaken for biofilms.
Wounds that contain biofilms may not be identified, leading to ineffective treatment and delayed healing.
Important clinical indications that a wound likely contains a biofilm include lack of response to treatment with antibiotics or antiseptics.
Debridement is one of the most important treatment strategies against biofilms; however, biofilms reform rapidly, so debridement should be used in conjunction with topical antiseptics and surfactants.